Diamond Head is a popular hike located on the eastern side of Oahu, Hawaii. The hike is considered to be moderate in difficulty, but the stunning views of the island and the sense of accomplishment that comes with reaching the top make it well worth the sweat and effort. See below of a walk through and FAQ on the Diamon Head Hike in Hawaii.
The Diamond Head hike takes you up to the summit of the crater, which stands at 760 feet above sea level.
The hike is about 1.5 miles round trip and takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to complete. The trail is well-maintained and easy to follow, with a mix of paved and rocky sections.
Make Sure to Follow the PAVED Trailhead
The hike begins at the Diamond Head State Monument, where there is a small parking area and a trailhead. From there, the trail winds its way up the mountain, passing through a tunnel and several switchbacks along the way. The first half of the hike is relatively easy, but the second half gets steeper as you near the summit.
As you make your way up the mountain, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding area. On a clear day, you can see all the way to the Waianae mountain range on the western side of the island. You’ll also be able to see the ocean and the nearby beaches, as well as the city of Honolulu in the distance. The views are truly breathtaking and make the hike even more worthwhile.
Beware of the the Tunnel During Low Light
One of the unique features of the Diamond Head hike is the fact that it takes you through a tunnel that was carved into the mountain. The tunnel is dark and narrow, so it’s a good idea to bring a flashlight or headlamp if you’re planning on hiking early in the morning or late in the evening. The tunnel is short, but it can be a bit disorienting if you’re not used to hiking in the dark.
As you near the top of the mountain, the trail gets steeper and the incline becomes more pronounced. This is where the hike starts to get challenging, and you’ll need to rely on your upper body strength to pull yourself up the last few hundred feet. It’s a good idea to take breaks if you need to, but the sense of accomplishment you’ll feel when you reach the top is well worth the effort.
Stunning Views
Once you reach the summit of the mountain, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the island. The summit is relatively flat, and there is a small shelter where you can sit and rest if you need to. There are also a few military relics left over from the mountain’s past, including old artillery guns and bunkers.
After you’ve taken in the views and caught your breath, it’s time to head back down the mountain. The descent is much easier than the climb up, but you’ll still need to be careful as the trail can be slippery. It’s a good idea to take your time and watch your step as you make your way back down to the base of the mountain.
Overall, the Diamond Head hike is a great way to spend a day in Oahu. The views from the top are breathtaking, and the sense of accomplishment you’ll feel after reaching the summit is unbeatable. Just be sure to come prepared with plenty of water and snacks, as well as a flashlight or headlamp if you’re planning on hiking early in the morning or late in the evening. With a little bit of effort, you’ll be rewarded with one of the most beautiful and memorable hikes of your life.
Parking at Diamond Head
Diamond Head is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, and finding a place to park can sometimes be a challenge. However, there are a few options for parking at or near the iconic volcanic crater.
One option is to park at the Diamond Head State Monument parking lot. This lot is located at the base of Diamond Head and is the closest parking option to the trailhead. The cost to park here is $5 per vehicle, and the lot is open from 6:00am to 6:00pm daily. It is important to note that this lot can fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist season, so it is recommended to arrive early to secure a spot.
Additional Parking Options
Another option is to park at Kapiolani Community College, which is located just a short distance from Diamond Head. The college has a large parking lot that is open to the public on weekends and holidays for a fee of $1 per hour. From the college, it is about a 15-minute walk to the Diamond Head trailhead.
If these options are full or unavailable, there are several other public parking lots and metered street parking in the surrounding area. These options may be a bit farther from the trailhead, but they are still within walking distance. It is important to note that parking in residential areas is restricted and violators may be ticketed.
Tips For Hiking the Diamond Head Hike in Hawaii
Diamond Head is one of the most iconic landmarks in Hawaii, and hiking to the top is a must-do activity for any visitor to Oahu. In this step-by-step guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know to hike Diamond Head.
Step 1: Plan Your Hike. Diamond Head is open daily from 6 am to 4:30 pm. We recommend arriving early to avoid the crowds and the heat of the day. The hike takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, round trip, and is rated as moderate, with some steep sections and staircases.
Step 2: Pay the Entrance Fee. There is an entrance fee of $5 per vehicle or $1 per person for pedestrians. Be sure to bring cash or a credit card to pay the fee.
Step 3: Start the Hike. The trailhead is located at the Diamond Head State Monument parking lot. Follow the signs and begin your ascent up the trail. The first section of the trail is paved and relatively easy, but it gets steeper as you get closer to the summit.
Note: The Staircase Is Difficult
Step 4: Climb the Staircases. The trail includes several staircases, including a steep staircase of 74 steps near the top. Be sure to take your time and use the handrails for support.
Step 5: Enjoy the Views. As you near the summit, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of Waikiki and the Pacific Ocean. Take a moment to catch your breath and enjoy the scenery.
Step 6: Reach the Summit. At the summit, you’ll find a World War II-era bunker and a navigational lighthouse. Be sure to take a moment to explore and learn about the history of Diamond Head.
Step 7: Descend the Trail. The descent is steep and can be slippery, so be sure to watch your step and use the handrails for support.
Step 8: Explore the Park. After your hike, take some time to explore the Diamond Head State Monument park. The park includes picnic areas, restrooms, and a gift shop.
Tips for Hiking Diamond Head
- Wear Proper Footwear. The trail is rocky and uneven, so be sure to wear proper hiking shoes with good grip.
- Bring Water and Sun Protection. Be sure to bring plenty of water and wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.
- Take Your Time. The trail can be steep and strenuous, so take breaks as needed and don’t push yourself too hard.
- Follow the Rules. and Respect the Environment Stay on the designated trails and respect the environment. Littering and vandalism are prohibited.
Hiking Diamond Head is a must-do activity for any visitor to Oahu. The trail provides stunning views of Waikiki and the Pacific Ocean, and the history and culture of Diamond Head make it a unique hiking experience. Be sure to follow the tips listed above to ensure a safe and enjoyable hike. So put on your hiking shoes, grab your water bottle, and experience the beauty of Diamond Head for yourself.
FAQ about Hiking Diamond Head
1. What is Diamond Head? Diamond Head is a famous volcanic tuff cone located on the Hawaiian island of Oahu. It’s a popular hiking destination known for its historic hiking trail, stunning coastal views, and military history.
2. How do I get to Diamond Head? Diamond Head is located near Waikiki in Honolulu. You can reach it by car, bus, or even by walking from Waikiki. There’s a parking lot at the crater’s base for those driving.
3. What should I expect on the hike? The hike to the summit of Diamond Head is approximately 0.8 miles (1.3 km) one way and involves steep stairs, uneven terrain, and a few tunnels. The hike generally takes about 1.5 to 2 hours round trip.
4. Do I need any special equipment? Comfortable walking shoes are a must. It’s also recommended to bring water, sunscreen, and a hat, as the trail can be hot and sunny. A flashlight can be helpful for the tunnels.
5. Is the hike suitable for children? Yes, the hike is popular among families. However, the trail can be steep and uneven in places, so it might be challenging for very young children.
6. What are the best times to hike Diamond Head? Early morning or late afternoon are the best times to avoid the midday sun and crowds. The park is open from 6 AM to 6 PM.
7. Is there an entrance fee? Yes, there’s a small fee for entry into the Diamond Head State Monument. The fee is per person for pedestrians and a different rate for vehicles.
8. Are there facilities available at Diamond Head? Restrooms and a small gift shop are available at the trailhead. However, there are no facilities along the trail or at the summit.
9. What should I do after the hike? After descending, many hikers enjoy picnicking around the crater or visiting nearby beaches to relax.
10. Can I bring pets on the hike? Pets are not generally allowed on the trail, with the exception of service animals.